Fuel Shortage Hits Russia: Government Scrambles for Gasoline from Belarus and India.

Russia’s Gasoline Deficit Worsens

According to Espreso.tv: Russia is grappling with a gasoline shortage triggered by damaged refineries and export restrictions. The government is now turning to imports from Belarus and India to stabilize supply.

Domestic gasoline production falls short by 40,000 to 45,000 metric tons per day, while peak summer demand reaches an estimated 115,000 to 120,000 metric tons daily. In June, the daily shortfall stood at 25%. The country’s largest gasoline producers are NORSI and the Omsk refinery. To curb the crisis, Russian authorities have banned exports of diesel, gasoline, and aviation fuel.

Import Strategy and Market Dynamics

In June, monthly deliveries of gasoline and diesel from Belarus hit a record high, with up to 6,000 tons of gasoline arriving each day. On June 17, Russia announced plans to import gasoline by sea from Asian countries. Starting July 1, it began maritime shipments from India, sending at least 60,000 tons of fuel via two tankers. The fuel shortage first emerged in late May.

Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak commented: 'The fuel situation remains challenging.'

Despite these efforts, Russia continues to seek ways to stabilize its fuel market amid rising demand and constrained supply.

The gasoline deficit highlights broader struggles in Russia’s energy sector, compounded by sanctions and internal disruptions. While imports from Belarus and India offer temporary relief, reliance on foreign suppliers introduces new risks to market stability. The government is exploring further measures, but challenges persist as summer fuel consumption peaks.